The world's biggest sporting event comes to North America — 48 nations, 16 US cities, and 104 matches across the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Soccer's grandest stage, right in your backyard.
The 2026 World Cup is expected to draw over 100 million US viewers. Whether you've never watched a match or just want a refresher — we've got you covered.
Group stage, knockout rounds, offside rule, penalty shootouts — everything explained simply so you can follow along from the first whistle.
All 48 teams sorted into 12 groups of four. See who the favorites are, which matches are must-watches, and how teams advance.
Matches spread across 11 US cities, 2 Canadian cities, and 3 Mexican cities. Find out which NFL and MLS stadiums host the biggest games.
The 2026 edition breaks with nearly every precedent set by previous tournaments.
Three nations sharing one tournament is unprecedented for the World Cup. The USA hosts 60 of the 104 matches, Canada hosts 13, and Mexico hosts 10 (plus the opener). The Final is at MetLife Stadium in East Rutherford, New Jersey.
For the first time, 48 teams compete instead of 32. That means 16 more nations — many of them first-timers — and 24 more matches than 2022. The expanded format gives smaller soccer nations a historic opportunity.
Most US venues are NFL stadiums — AT&T Stadium, SoFi Stadium, Levi's Stadium, Gillette Stadium, and more. These are among the largest sports venues in the world, designed for massive crowds. Capacity ranges from 60,000 to over 90,000.
The USA is home to tens of millions of immigrants and descendants from World Cup-qualifying nations. This tournament will feel personal in a way no previous US-hosted event has — cities with large Latino, European, and African populations will become World Cup epicenters.
From 48 teams down to one champion — four phases over 39 days.
11 American cities host World Cup matches — from New York to Los Angeles, Dallas to Seattle. See all 16 venues →
A quick guide to the contenders, the hosts, and the dark horses. All 48 teams →
The 2018 World Champions boast arguably the most talented squad in the world. Kylian Mbappé leads an attack built for major tournaments. France enters as one of the bookmakers' favourites.
Five-time World Champions. Brazil's 2026 squad is stacked with creative talent, and the nation is desperate to end a drought stretching back to 2002. A genuine favourite every four years.
Lionel Messi's World Cup story peaked in 2022 when Argentina finally lifted the trophy. At 38, Messi may make one final World Cup appearance — the entire planet will be watching.
The USMNT automatic qualifier as host nation. Playing at home in front of massive crowds could be transformative for a young team. With Christian Pulisic leading the attack, the US aims to reach the knockout rounds.
Mexico co-hosts and will play its opener at Estadio Azteca — one of the most iconic soccer venues in the world. El Tri has been the dominant force in CONCACAF and will have thunderous home support.
The 2024 UEFA European Champions arrive in excellent form with a young, technically gifted squad. Spain plays the kind of attractive possession football that wins tournaments — and they've proved it before, winning three major titles between 2008 and 2012.